
Jana Cox encourages students to drop by her office in the University Center. Photo by Angela Foster.
Director of Financial Aid and Scholarships Jana Cox joined the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in August 2024 after working at UT Martin. A recent transplant to Tennessee, Cox moved from California in 2021, bringing over two decades of experience in financial aid across multiple universities.
At UTC, Cox wants to help guide students through the complicated world of financial aid and scholarships, making sure they have plenty of resources and support. She wants students to feel comfortable reaching out or coming to her door with whatever questions they may have.
What does your role entail?
“My role involves overseeing Title IV and state funding, which includes scholarships, grants and loans. Essentially, I make sure funds are distributed according to regulations and that eligible students receive their financial aid. This includes state grants, institutional scholarships like the Moc and Chancellor’s scholarships, and federal aid such as Pell Grants and student loans.”
What are some of the most common questions you receive and how do you address them?
“The most common question we get is, ‘When do I get my refund?’ That’s a big one. We usually direct students to the page with disbursement information because refunds don’t go out until a couple of weeks into the semester. Another common question is, ‘How do I complete the FAFSA?’ For that, we send them to the StudentAid.gov website to get started. Students also ask a lot about additional scholarships, saying things like, ‘I didn’t get enough money. What can I do?’ We walk them through the scholarship process and see if there’s any other aid they might qualify for.”
How can you and your office serve as a resource for students?
“I think the biggest thing is that we’re the money people. We’re the ones who award grants, loans and scholarships. The Mocs One Center is a great resource, but sometimes students don’t realize they can reach out to us directly if they need help. Our numbers are listed on the website so that they can get to us.
“We also sometimes have to cancel certain financial aids because they didn’t make progress in their academics. If students don’t meet those requirements—like not going to class or not earning the grades—they can lose their aid. Make sure you read everything you get from financial aid because it’s important. Whether it’s about keeping your aid, applying for aid or any other updates, that information is key.
“UTC has a fantastic financial aid team. We’re really focused on helping students get the aid they’re eligible for and making the process as smooth as possible. Financial aid can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to help. I hope more students feel comfortable reaching out to us.”
What do you wish more students knew about financial aid and scholarships?
“The biggest thing that students need to know is that they have to apply. There are so many students who don’t even realize financial aid is available. Some students assume they aren’t eligible and don’t apply, but applying is essential for things like the HOPE Scholarship, other scholarships we offer and even loans. Even if loans are the only option, applying lets students know what they qualify for.
“Another important thing is that you have to apply every year. Many students think that because they applied last year, they don’t need to do it again. It’s crucial to apply each year to make sure you’re staying eligible.”
I know you’ve only been here for a few months, but do you have a favorite building on campus?
“I’d say my favorite building is probably the UTC Library. I think it’s an absolutely beautiful building—and it has a Starbucks.”